Quebec City: Double Decker Express Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Quebec City and want a quick, scenic overview of its most iconic sights, the Double Decker Express Tour comes highly recommended. With a solid 4.5-star rating (out of 5) based on 182 reviews, this tour offers a convenient way to get your bearings while enjoying some of the most photogenic spots in the city—all from the comfort of an open-top or standard double-decker bus.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, it’s an affordable introduction at just under $28 per person, making it accessible and good value. Second, it’s compact, taking about an hour—ideal for fitting into a busy itinerary. Third, the on-board commentary provides useful background, which is perfect for first-time visitors eager to learn about Quebec’s history and culture.

However, a few travelers noted that the audio system can be hit or miss—some found the canned narration a bit dull or hard to hear at times, especially if you’re not sure how to use your earphones properly. For those who enjoy lively guides or detailed personal stories, this might be a downside. Still, it remains a popular choice for those wanting a visual and informational overview without hiking around on foot.

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors, families, or anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic introduction to Quebec City’s best-known sights. If you prefer deeply personalized or interactive guides, you might look elsewhere, but for a hassle-free, visually engaging overview, this tour hits the mark.

Good To Know

• Affordable and convenient city introduction for first-time visitors
• Beautiful views from the upper deck, especially on nice days
• Comfortable multi-language audio commentary for background info
• Top landmarks covered: Château Frontenac, Old Quebec, Plains of Abraham, and more
• Flexible experience with options to sit on the open top or inside
• Potential for traffic delays, especially during peak times or later in the day

An In-Depth Look at the Quebec City Double Decker Tour

What’s Included and How It Works

Priced at about $27.86 per person, this tour is a cost-effective way to see Quebec City’s most famous sights without the fatigue of walking or the hassle of driving. The tour is around an hour long, which is perfect for travelers with tight schedules or those wanting a brief overview before exploring on their own.

The tour operates from a main meeting point at 12 Rue Sainte-Anne, right by the iconic Château Frontenac. You board a double-decker bus with an optional open-top deck—your choice depending on the weather and your desire for photos. The bus will take you through both Upper and Lower Town, covering key areas like Old Quebec, the Plains of Abraham, Grande-Allée, and the Parliament Building.

On-Board Commentary and Guides

One of the main attractions is the audio commentary available via earphones, which provides background information about the sights. Reviewers have praised guides like Jacques Lemieux, who made the experience feel personable and engaging, adding extra energy and flexibility, especially when traffic delays occurred.

However, some travelers found the audio system less lively, describing it as canned and not very engaging. A review pointed out that instructions on how to use the earphones could be clearer, especially at the start of the tour. If you’re someone who prefers lively, personal guides, this may be a minor frustration, but most find the information sufficient for a quick overview.

The Itinerary – What You’ll See

The tour hits all the highlights but also offers a few surprises. Here’s what you can expect:

• Plains of Abraham: Known for its historical battles, this large open space is a key site for understanding Quebec’s past. You’ll drive by the towers and have a good view of the sprawling park.
• Grande-Allée Street: A lively boulevard lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings—perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local vibe.
• Place d’Youville: A charming square in Old Quebec, often bustling with activity and street performers.
• Château Frontenac: The most photographed hotel in the world, its impressive architecture makes it a must-see. The tour starts right here, so you get a great first impression.
• Parliament Building: An impressive structure that reflects Quebec’s political importance and history.
• Bassin Louise: Driving past this waterfront area offers a glimpse of the city’s connection to its industrial past and beautiful cityscape views.
• Old Quebec: Half of the tour focuses on this UNESCO World Heritage site, with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and vibrant cafes.
• Lower and Upper Towns: The bus moves smoothly between these two parts, giving a sense of Quebec’s layered history and geography.
• La Citadelle: The historic fortress with a strong military history, rebuilt after a fire, is visible as you pass by.

The Experience and Its Strengths

Travelers particularly enjoy the stunning vistas from the top deck, which allow unimpeded views of the city’s architecture, parks, and waterfront. During warm days, it’s a real treat to sit outside, feeling the breeze while snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery.

The multi-language audio system is a plus, offering options in both English and French, so you can get your fill of local language cues. As one reviewer noted, the guide “switches between languages,” which can sometimes make it hard to follow if you’re not paying close attention. Still, it adds to the authentic feel of the city.

Practical Details and Tips

• Timing: Arrive 20-30 minutes early, especially during busy periods, to secure a good seat and avoid missing the start.
• Weather: Since the tour is partly outdoors, good weather makes a big difference. On hot days, sitting in the open top offers a refreshing perspective, while in rain or cold, inside seating might be more comfortable.
• Group Size: With a maximum of 51 travelers, the experience remains relatively intimate, but expect some crowding during peak times.
• Duration: The one-hour run time is ideal for a quick overview. If you want a deeper dive, consider pairing this with other guided or self-guided explorations.
• Transportation: The bus departs and returns to the same spot, simplifying logistics.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guides, like Raymond, who provided lots of information and kept the tour lively. One mentioned how the guide made the experience “really interesting” with his storytelling. Others appreciated the good commentary that helped them understand the significance of each site.

However, a few found that the audio quality could be improved or that the narration felt somewhat repetitive or scripted. One suggested that a live guide would add a lot of value, but overall, most agree it’s a solid, reliable way to get an overview.

Value for Money

At under $30, the tour offers decent value, especially for first-timers who want a broad, visual sense of Quebec without the fatigue of walking or navigating public transport on their own. When you factor in the convenience, the opportunity to sit on the open deck for photos, and the informative commentary, it’s a worthwhile investment—particularly if you’re short on time.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is great for first-time visitors wanting to orient themselves quickly. Families with kids will appreciate the short duration and engaging views, especially on good weather days. If you’re someone who enjoys seeing city sights from a comfortable bus and hearing about local history in multiple languages, this is a solid choice.

If you’re a solo traveler or part of a small group looking for a relaxed, no-fuss overview, the Double Decker Express Tour is perfect. But if your priority is deep historical storytelling or a highly lively guide, you might prefer more personal or interactive options.

Final Thoughts

The Quebec City Double Decker Express Tour offers a practical, scenic, and educational glimpse into one of Canada’s most charming cities. It’s especially suited for first-timers who want a visual overview without too much walking or planning. The views from the top deck, combined with the well-chosen stops, make this a smart choice for travelers short on time but eager to see a lot.

While the audio narration isn’t as lively as some might hope, the overall experience provides good value, especially when paired with subsequent explorations of the city’s streets and hidden corners. Expect friendly guides, iconic sights, and plenty of photo opportunities—making it a memorable way to start your Quebec adventure.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers of all ages can enjoy this tour, especially since it’s only about an hour long and offers plenty of great photo stops and scenery.

Can I sit on the open-top deck?
Yes, you can choose to sit on the open top deck if the weather permits, which is highly recommended for the best views and photo opportunities.

How do I know where to find the tour start point?
The tour begins at 12 Rue Sainte-Anne, located near prominent sites like Château Frontenac. It’s easy to reach by public transit or walking.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to rain or other bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there audio options in multiple languages?
Yes, the narration is available in several languages, including English and French, with audio delivered through earphones provided for a clear experience.

Is this tour good for those who want more detailed historical info?
While you’ll get an overview, the narration may be somewhat canned or brief. For in-depth stories, consider supplementing with additional guided tours or visits.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately one hour, making it easy to include in a packed sightseeing day.

In essence, the Quebec City Double Decker Express Tour is a fantastic way to orient yourself, capture stunning views, and get a taste of the city’s charm—all with minimal fuss and maximum visual impact.